Couple of 1903A3 & A4 questions......

[Bustachip3]

First question: I notice on the 03A4's stock, there is a cut out for the bolt handle to close into, is this because the bolt handle has been modified or bent differently from the original design? Or is the stock cut out for the bolt handle, on all 03A4's?

On the Remington 1903A3 pics I've seen on here, the stock doesn't have a cut out for the bolt
handle to close into, it just looks like the bolt handle is bent more like a 90 deg angle and closes
without hitting the stock? I just noticed this from looking at different pics....so I really don't know
what is correct and what is modified? Hopefully you guys can clue me in.

Second question: regarding slings for the 1903A3, which one do you prefer? Here's a couple I've been looking at on different web sites. The first one is a (M1917 Kerr sling) in O.D. color...



I think this one is too long for the 03A3, but they say it can be doubled up at the rear so it will work, and I actually like the O.D. color vs. the tan. Has anyone used one of these slings on your 03A3?

I am also looking at this (M1903 Kerr no-buckle) it measures 14-1/2" on the short side and 46" on the long side, do any of you use this sling for your 03A3?



Then there is the leather slings such as the Tuner and others, I think these slings really look good too on the 03A3's, but I'm wondering how well they would work in the field, like being stiff and bulky, and whether it would wrap around your arm as easy as the web sling?



Anyway, I'd like to hear your opinions on the slings and the bolt cut out on the 03A3 stocks.

Regards,

Information

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[JGaynor]

First question: I notice on the 03A4's stock, there is a cut out for the bolt handle to close into, is this because the bolt handle has been modified or bent differently from the original design? Or is the stock cut out for the bolt handle, on all 03A4's?

All M1903A4s have a notch for the bolt handle cut into the stock. There is also a slight bevel cut into rear of the receiver to provide bolt handle clearance. Both oth these modifications were necessary because the bolt handle has a pronounced curve so that it may clear the telescopic sight.

Below are pictures of Remington A3 bolt next to a Remington A4 bolt showing the difference in handle shape.

Also there is a picture from a Technical Manual showing the two telescopes initially approved for the A4.

In the sticky section of this forum you may download TM 9-1270 which lists all three of the slings approved for the A3 and A4.

[Bustachip3]

Thanks JGaynor, so only the 1903A4's have the cut out for the bolt handle. The manual has a lot of good info I was looking for, and it was right there in front of me...
I would like to hear some opinions as to which slings most people prefer to use on their 03A3's?

Regards,

[Randy A]

The first two (Kerr) slings you pictured were predominately WW1 issue, not common on the A3 rifles by the time they came along. By that time a couple other models came, (and went) the M1923, 1907 and M1 web would be more correct. Even more would be the 1907 or the M1, your kerrs would be most fitting for a M 1917 rifle, that's why it's too long. There were 3 lengths for the Kerr, shortest being for the Thompson SMG, mid-length for the m1903 and longest for the 1917. There quite a few reproductions (Kerr) around and despite looking very nice are not as sturdy as the originals. Quite a few folks have found that the hardware bends and stretches when in use.

Preference really depends on what your doing with it, competition normally demands the M1907 sling and it is still favored in most circles but the M1 is also correct and a close second. Third would be the M1923, many were still in use and available in both OD and tan. Due to complexity and poor favor with the GIs production was discontinued and orders were to exhaust supplies. Last would be the Kerr, it's really not correct for the A3 and I'm unaware of its use by WW2 other than on the Thompson or maybe a shotgun, really don't know, never saw one on an A3.

No bolt cut outs on a3 stocks, A3 bolts didn't require them. The bent A4 handle is the only one requiring a cut out so if you find a factory cut stock it's for and A3 and will only be a scant or C stock.

[Bustachip3]

Thanks for the reply Randy A, that's what I was looking for on the sling perspective . It sounds like the leather is the way to go for durability, although, I guess I would
actually have to try a couple different styles to see which one works best for me. I appreciate the info.

Regards,

[Randy A]

All being said on my AR I use the early M16 sling. Its identical to the M1 web, (maybe a little shorter) but configure a sliding loop in the tail. Works beautiful and very quick to adjust.

[Rick the Librarian]

Me, too ... It may not look as "official" as the M1907 but it sure is easy to use and adjust!